The dinner atmosphere eventually relaxed, and seeing Dulcie more at ease, Kyson began his announcement.
âTonight, I need to share something quite personal.
Iâm married.
â
âWhat ?â
Ryder almost choked on his soup, hastily wiping his mouth as he bombarded Kyson with questions.
âYouâre married? When? How did I not know? Was it a quick decision? Who is she?â
His queries flew fast and furious.
Sally, suppressing a smile, glanced at Dulcie across the table and interjected, âRyder, look whoâs right here.
â
It was only then that Ryder truly noticed Dulcie.
She offered a shy, polite smile.
âI thought⦠Wasnât she⦠your maid?â
Kyson clarified, âThe following day after Dulcie came home with me, we got married.
Yes, it was rather sudden, which is why I hadnât mentioned it.
But weâre doing well, and I wanted you all to know now.
â
Ryder nodded, his initial shock turning into acceptance.
âThis is wonderful news.
Congratulations, Dulcie.
Youâre part of the Shaw family now.
Relax, and feel at home.
If you need anything or have questions, Connolly and the staff are here, and you can always ask me.
â
His smile was genuine and welcoming.
âThank you, Ryder.
â Dulcie was touched by the casual and friendly nature of the Shaw family, a stark contrast to the more traditional and restrictive families she knew.
Yet, despite the warmth, a trace of sadness tinged her expression; the harmony she experienced now felt fleeting.
A hint of melancholy shadowed her eyes as she continued to eat.
Ryder noticed her expression and turned to Kyson.
âNow that youâre legally married, when will the wedding be? Sheâs your wife, after all.
She deserves a proper celebration, donât you think?â
Kyson paused with his spoon in mid-air and remained silent.
Dulcie caught his subtle change of expression.
According to their signed contract, their marriage would remain a secret from the outside world.
Reflecting on their pact, Dulcie spoke with a sense of finality.
âItâs fine.
I donât need a wedding.
ALL that matters is that weâre together, now and always.
A ceremony is just a formality.
Besides, Kysonâs career doesnât leave him any time for such things.
â
Ryder clicked his tongue and sighed, expressing his admiration.
âDulcie, youâre so understanding.
Youâll make an excellent wife.
Those spoiled and privileged women from wealthy backgrounds wouldnât dream of saying something like that.
â
Sally bristled at his words.
âWhat do you mean by that, Ryder? Who are you calling spoiled?â
Coming from a wealthy family herself, Sally wondered if Ryder was hinting at her.
Ryderâs smile faltered as he hurried to clarify, âI wasnât referring to you, Sally.
Donât take it the wrong way.
â